FROM Good Friday if you visit RSPCA Southridge Animal Centre you can enjoy tea, coffee and refreshments at the new teashop, Cafe Ridge. Manned by the Friends of RSPCA Southridge, the caf� will occupy a marquee overlooking fields and backing onto the rece

FROM Good Friday if you visit RSPCA Southridge Animal Centre you can enjoy tea, coffee and refreshments at the new teashop, Cafe Ridge.

Manned by the Friends of RSPCA Southridge, the caf� will occupy a marquee overlooking fields and backing onto the reception at the South Mimms centre.

All the money from the teashop will go to the care of the animals at the Packhorse Lane care home.

Terry Pavey, chairman of the Friends, told the WHT: "We hope to offer cakes, crisps, sandwiches, hot food, opening at weekends throughout the summer serving visitors and staff.

"We'll also have a manned display featuring the work of the Friends.

"Families in nearby areas, like Potters Bar, could pop over at weekends, view the animals and spend a very pleasant hour or two.

"It's a lovely setting - just the place to be on a sunny afternoon."

For more information call the Packhorse Lane centre on 0300 123 0704.

* The opening of the teashop coincides with the centre's Easter fair, from Good Friday until Easter Sunday.

Stalls featuring the usual bric-a-brac, clothes, toys, books, plants, home-made cakes and marmalade, will be at the event, which is also organised by the Friends.

For opening times and ticket prices call the centre on the above number.